The France based association, which was formed in 1904, represents motoring organisations and motorcar users but is best known as the governing body for many auto-racing events, including Formula 1 and the World Rally Championship.

The move to upgrade the FIA comes after two years of provisional recognition by the IOC and follows an initiation meeting between FIA President Jean Todt and then IOC President Jacques Rogge in 2010.

The IOC's decision confirms that the statutes, practice and activities of the FIA are fully compliant with the Olympic Charter, including the adoption and implementation of the World Anti-Doping Code.

The FIA is perhaps best known for its role as the governing body of Formula 1

"The IOC's full recognition of the FIA's leading role in the promotion and governance of motorsport is acknowledgement of the important reforms we have undertaken over recent years to meet the best international sporting, governance and ethical standards," FIA President Jean Todt said.

"This is important news for the 130 National Sporting Authorities the FIA represents.

"Through their membership of the FIA, they now have the backing of the IOC to engage fully in the work carried out by their local Olympic committee.

"This will raise the visibility and status of motorsport in their country, and should help inspire more people to get involved."

The FIA was elected to become a member of SportAccord, the umbrella organisation for both Olympic and non-Olympic international sports federations, in May this year and is also a member of the Association of the IOC Recognised International Sports Federations (ARISF) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

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